A screech owl in the new box

October 11, 2024

A screech owl has been hanging out in the new owl box for a couple of weeks. Our daughter told us about it while we were gone, and I’ve been on the lookout since coming home. Yesterday I finally saw it.

I was rumbling the trash and recycling bins up the driveway around 6 pm and happened to look up. Despite the commotion, there it was! Just calmly sitting in the doorway, watching me.

I went inside to get my camera, and it drowsily stayed put, its half-open eyes watching me as I took a bunch of pictures.

I believe it’s too early for nesting season for these beautiful little owls. That happens in winter. But I hope it’s checking out the box in preparation and will choose it to raise a family when the time is right.

I welcome your comments. Please scroll to the end of this post to leave one. If you’re reading in an email, click here to visit Digging and find the comment box at the end of each postAnd hey, did someone forward this email to you, and you want to subscribe? Click here to get Digging delivered directly to your inbox!

__________________________

Digging Deeper

Come learn about gardening and design at Garden Spark! I organize in-person talks by inspiring designers, landscape architects, authors, and gardeners a few times a year in Austin. These are limited-attendance events that sell out quickly, so join the Garden Spark email list to be notified in advance; simply click this link and ask to be added. Season 8 kicks off in fall 2024. Stay tuned for more info!

All material © 2024 by Pam Penick for Digging. Unauthorized reproduction prohibited.

3 responses to “A screech owl in the new box”

  1. Paula Stone says:

    Congrats on your new tenant!

  2. Kris P says:

    Such a wonderful visitor!

  3. Jeanette says:

    That’s really exciting!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *